27 April 2016

Whitehall urged to reduce EU penalties

The public spending watchdog has criticised government departments for being too slow to reduce the amount paid in penalties to the European Commission.

A new report from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) has found that the UK paid at least £650m in penalties over the past decade because of errors in how public bodies have spent EU funding.

It is calling on the Treasury to 'urgently' address the causes and levels of penalties incurred, and ensure departments share best practice and learn from other EU member states.

Meg Hillier, chair of the PAC, said: 'Government inaction on EU penalties is costing taxpayers dear. Money intended to support projects and programmes in the UK is instead being lost.

'The apparent lack of practical concern about this fact until recently will anger many people, whatever their views on Britain's EU membership. As a priority the Treasury and departments must identify the reasons they keep being penalised and take whatever action is necessary to rectify their mistakes.

'Beyond that, on behalf of taxpayers our committee will expect the announcement of a named official to take responsibility for improving performance in this area.'

The report also called on the Treasury to produce a strategy for using EU funds in the UK, setting out standards for performance and value for money.

What’s happening inside the LGPS? image

What’s happening inside the LGPS?

Get the most informed take on the challenges and opportunities that substantial reform will bring at this year’s PLSA Local Authority Conference.
SIGN UP
For your free daily news bulletin
Highways jobs

Senior Project Manager (Regeneration)

West Yorkshire Combined Authority
£49,359 to £56,057 per annum (pay award pending) – Grade 9
With ambitious goals ahead, we need dedicated individuals who are ready to make a real impact as part of our expanding Housing team Leeds / Hybrid
Recuriter: West Yorkshire Combined Authority

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerPermanent, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

Information Governance Officer

Essex County Council
£28349.00 - £33351.00 per annum + pension
Information Governance OfficerFixed Term, Full Time£28,349 to £33,351 per annumLocation
Recuriter: Essex County Council

HR Advisor - Pay & Policy (Career Grade)

Wakefield Council
Grade 9 - Grade 10, Career Grade, 24 hours, Permanent
Are you ready to make a difference and shape policies that foster a high performing and inclusive workplace? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council

Leisure Support Assistant

Wakefield Council
£12,013.50 - £12,202.00, Grade 3, 18.5 hours, Permanent
Are You Ready to Make a Difference in Your Community? Wakefield, West Yorkshire
Recuriter: Wakefield Council
Linkedin Banner